Come and knock on Pottsville’s door this May, because a familiar face is moving into the neighborhood for the weekend.
Richard Kline, who played upstairs neighbor Larry Dallas on Three’s Company, will be the special guest at this year’s Pottsville Film Festival.
The second annual independent film festival returns to downtown Pottsville May 29-31. Organizers promise an expanded and elevated celebration of independent film, creativity, and community.
Presented by Majestic Theater and proudly supported by returning Title Sponsor Explore Schuylkill, this year’s festival builds on the strong momentum of its inaugural year while introducing exciting changes that place a renewed emphasis not only on film, but also on highlighting Pottsville’s vibrant downtown businesses and attractions.
“This festival is about more than screenings,” said Al Miscannon, Chair of the Pottsville Film Festival Committee. “It’s about creating energy in our downtown, driving visitors to our restaurants and shops, and positioning Pottsville as a destination for arts and culture.
“We are intentionally expanding the experience so that our local businesses are as much a part of the weekend as the films themselves. We’re also incredibly grateful to Explore Schuylkill for once again serving as our Title Sponsor and helping us grow the festival’s regional reach.”
The 2026 festival will once again welcome filmmakers and film lovers from across the country. With more than 100 submissions already received through FilmFreeway, the Pottsville Film Festival continues to grow its reputation within the independent film community.
A major highlight of the weekend will be special guest Richard Kline, best known for his role as Larry Dallas on the hit television comedy series Three’s Company. Kline will join the festival for the entire weekend, participating in events, engaging with attendees, hosting an educational workshop, and leading a special Q&A session. His presence offers festival-goers a rare opportunity to hear firsthand insights from a seasoned television and film professional.
The festival’s continued growth is also being shaped by hometown talent. Actor, director, and filmmaker Joe Whelski, originally from Pottsville and now based in New York, is playing a pivotal role in facilitating this year’s festival. Whelski has been instrumental in strengthening industry connections, enhancing programming quality, and helping position the Pottsville Film Festival as a serious platform for independent filmmakers.
Organizers are intentionally integrating downtown businesses into the festival experience, encouraging attendees to explore Pottsville between screenings and events. The goal is to create a true citywide celebration that benefits the broader community while elevating the festival’s regional profile.
“This is about showcasing everything our city has to offer,” Miscannon added. “Film is the anchor — but the heart of this weekend is downtown Pottsville.”
A full schedule of events, film blocks, and ticket information will be released in the coming weeks.
Right now, organizers say there will be curated independent film screenings, interactive workshops and filmmaker discussions, a red carpet event featuring Kline, networking opportunities, and events that highlight downtown businesses.
For updates and announcements, follow the Pottsville Film Festival on social media:
Instagram: @Pottsvillefilmfestival Facebook: Pottsville Film Festival FilmFreeway: filmfreeway.com/ThePottsvilleFilmFestival
From a press release/Photo by Tinaamadio
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